In keeping with our truth-in-labeling commitment none of our labels currently carry a gluten free statement. Although most of our products could legally fit within the accepted parameters of a gluten free claim, we do not because the legal definition does not protect against all types of gluten allergies.
In the US and Canada gluten-free means no wheat, barley, rye or oats in the ingredients. By this definition our Yogurt, Tofu Salads, Tofu, Chipotle Mushroom Tamales and Sweet Potato Pecan Tamales ARE considered gluten free.
Using these standards our Wheat Roast, Vegitas Vegetarian Fajitas, Texas Style Vegetarian BBQ and the Vegetarian Tamales would NOT be gluten free.
The Tofu Salads contain grain vinegar, which could produce a gluten reaction in some people. Grain vinegars and alcohol fall into a contested grouping of foods that has their gluten protein content reduced to less than .03 % during processing and are not generally excluded in a gluten free diet.
Some people are so sensitive to gluten protein they have a reaction to glutamines, an amino acid component of gluten, and glutamates, which are a salt form of glutamines used in flavor enhancers such as MSG. These amino acids are found in almost all grains and legumes including corn and soybeans and many vegetables. These amino acids even show up in cow’s milk because of the grain diet of the cattle. Even our gluten free products (using the definition above) could cause an allergic reaction in those with this sensitivity.
The link below has information on the international standards for gluten free.
http://www.csaceliacs.org/DefofGlutenFree.php
